How immune cells interact with oral bacteria and contribute to gum disease
A role for immune cell plasticity in commensal survival and escalation of inflammation
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in your body, called macrophages, interact with bacteria in your mouth and how inflammation can make gum disease worse, with the hope of finding better treatments for people with periodontal disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10746831 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of immune cells, particularly macrophages, in the development of periodontal disease caused by oral bacteria. It focuses on how these immune cells interact with commensal bacteria, such as oral streptococci, and how inflammation alters these interactions, potentially worsening the disease. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into how inflammation can enhance the survival of harmful bacteria and promote gum disease. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved treatments for periodontal disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from periodontal disease or those at risk of developing it.
Not a fit: Patients without periodontal disease or those with other unrelated dental conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating periodontal disease by targeting immune cell interactions with bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune interactions with bacteria, but this specific focus on oral commensals and macrophages is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kay, Jason G — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Kay, Jason G
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.